Meet Gill Sotu | Performance Poet, Playwright, DJ & Event Host

We had the good fortune of connecting with Gill Sotu and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Gill, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I had to become a creative. It’s part of my DNA. Starting out, there is not a lot of money in it, and you are constantly hustling. But in the mist of it, when everyday feels like a great challenge instead of laboring work, you know all the sacrifice is worth it.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I am a chameleon of sorts. I do a variety of things when it comes to art and performance. What sets me apart is that although I always center my art around an aspect of my own story, what I give the the world is for them. To recognize a part of themselves in my words and connect on a spiritual, and spirit-full level. I am most proud of my work with Tedx San Diego, as well as just being able to provide for my family through my art. It is not easy. You are constantly on the grind trying to outdo yourselves, and not get distracted by the accomplishments of others. One has to really learn to ENJOY THE JOURNEY. The feeling of just doing the thing because it gives you joy. Otherwise you will talk yourself right into a funk. I was put on earth to connect communities. To be a conduit of empowerment and joy. That’s my story and I’m sticking to it!

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Probably the first place I would take a friend to is Balboa Park. I think it has the best of what San Diego is, culture, art, innovation, the busking on the sidewalk, beauty and a whole lot of diversity. If they weren’t from Cali I’d take them to get a burrito. Show them what a real one tastes like. Too many good choices to list, but probably would start with Rigaberto’s. I’d take them downtown to see what’s that like a night. Little Italy has some really good places to eat if we wanted to get fancy. And finally, I think they’d have to see Ocean and Mission beach. Cause why come to San Diego and not experience the beach.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
A big shout out to my family. No matter how many rounds of applause I get or moments of heartbreaking silence I have to suffer through, they will always remind me there is silliness to be had and garbage to be taken out. Also, my fans and friends who just keep supporting me through this journey.

Website: www.gillsotu.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/gillsotu
Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/gillsotu
Twitter: @gillsotu
Facebook: www.facebook.com/gillsotu
Youtube: www.youtube.com/gillsotu